By: LESEGO POTO
Sports can change lives; it also assists in eradicating gender inequality. Sports even goes as
far as teaching women and young girls the significance of teamwork and self-reliance
including confidence. However, the lack of investments, negative stereotypes including
social norms continue to impact female athletes. It is not fair for women to continuously fight
to be recognised, supported and respected even within the sports industry amongst many
other. In order to achieve true gender equality in sports and everywhere else, we need to
actively show up for women in more ways than one.
Women’s participation in sports has been improving at a rapid pace, as a result, the greater
percentage of revenue support is showing a great increase. For some not at as quick
enough but the rate of change is increasing which is a positive sign. It still needs to be
discussed that Unequal pay and lack of both investment and access to opportunities is one of
the biggest challenges facing women’s sports. Despite progress, women in the sporting
world still fall far behind men when it comes to money.
Women’s sports compared to men’s sports, are rarely broadcasted in the media. Which results
in many people arguing that women’s sports is less interesting compared to mens sport, this is
because women’s sport lacks exposure and support. The community or rather the universe as
a whole should unite in advocating for more women to venture in masculine sports without
their sexuality being questions because this is one of the obstacles that demotivate women to
venture in more sports than encouraged.
Sport has been one of the most important socio-cultural learning experiences for boys and
men for many years. Those same benefits should be granted to women and young girls. It is
important for all of us to know that:
High school girls who play sports are less likely to be involved in an unintended
pregnancy; more likely to get better grades in school and more likely to graduate than
girls who do not play sports.
Girls and women who play sports have higher levels of confidence and self-esteem
and lower levels of depression.
Girls and women who play sports have a more positive body image and experience
higher states of psychological well-being than girls and women who do not play
sports.
To promote equity in sports, fair and equal opportunities must be provided for all genders.
Promoting gender equality in sports requires the participation of everyone. As an individual,
be mindful of your words and actions, as you may unintentionally be promoting gender
inequality. When discussing gender equality on social media, exercise caution and use
comprehensive language. It is also vital to try to find materials and information on how other people are promoting gender equity in sports.
